Germany’s Chancellor Merz: 'Israel Is Doing the Dirty Work for All of Us' – G7, Iran, and the Shadow of War

Introduction: A Statement That Shook the World

Did you know that Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz just made headlines by saying Israel is doing the 'dirty work' for the West in its military campaign against Iran? At the G7 summit in Canada, Merz not only praised Israel’s courage but also hinted at the possibility of U.S. military involvement if Iran refuses to return to nuclear negotiations. This statement has sent ripples through international politics, media, and online communities, especially in Korea, where the Middle East conflict is closely watched for its global impact.

Background: Why Is Israel Attacking Iran?

The roots of the current Israel-Iran conflict go deep. Since June 13, 2025, Israel has launched a series of airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities, aiming to halt Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on Israeli cities, escalating the situation into a near all-out war. The conflict is not just about two countries; it’s a proxy for broader regional and global tensions, involving the U.S., Russia, and China. Korean blogs highlight how this war is different from previous skirmishes, with both sides using advanced technology and intelligence operations, and the world economy feeling the shockwaves through rising oil prices and market volatility.

Merz’s Statement: 'Dirty Work for All of Us'

At the G7 summit, Merz’s words were blunt: 'Israel is doing the dirty work for all of us.' He argued that Israel’s actions are not just self-defense but a service to Western democracies threatened by Iran’s regime. Merz emphasized that the Iranian government has brought 'death and destruction to the world' and that recent Israeli attacks have significantly weakened Tehran’s leadership. He also pointed out that Israel lacks the heavy weaponry needed to destroy Iran’s underground nuclear sites, suggesting that only the U.S. could provide such military support if diplomacy fails. This open call for possible U.S. intervention marks a dramatic shift in European rhetoric.

International and Korean Reactions: Support, Criticism, and Fear

Merz’s comments have sparked intense debate. Western allies, especially the U.S. and UK, have shown cautious support, while Russia and China have criticized Israel’s actions and called for restraint. In Korea, online communities like DC Inside, FM Korea, and Naver blogs are buzzing with mixed reactions. Some users praise Merz’s honesty and see Israel as a bulwark against authoritarian regimes. Others worry that such rhetoric could drag the world into a larger war, with some even mentioning the specter of World War III. A popular Naver blog post compared the missile attacks on Tel Aviv to a hypothetical strike on Seoul’s Gangnam district, highlighting the psychological impact of the conflict.

Cultural Insight: Why Does This Matter to Global Fans?

For international readers, understanding the cultural and historical context is key. Germany’s stance is shaped by its history, including the legacy of the Holocaust and its commitment to Israel’s security. At the same time, the Middle East conflict is deeply intertwined with global energy markets, religious tensions, and the balance of power between democracies and authoritarian states. Korean netizens often discuss these issues through the lens of their own security concerns, drawing parallels between the Israel-Iran conflict and tensions on the Korean Peninsula. The fear of escalation and the impact on daily life—like rising fuel prices and stock market crashes—make this a truly global issue.

Community Voices: What Are Koreans Saying?

On DC Inside, one user wrote, 'Merz is just saying what everyone else is thinking but afraid to admit.' Another on FM Korea commented, 'If the U.S. gets involved, this could really become World War III.' On Naver, a top comment reads, 'Watching Tel Aviv get bombed is like seeing missiles fall on Gangnam. It’s terrifying.' Some users express skepticism about Western motives, while others focus on the humanitarian crisis unfolding in both Israel and Iran. The diversity of opinions reflects the complexity of the issue and the way global events are filtered through local perspectives.

The Bigger Picture: What’s Next for the World?

As of June 19, 2025, the Israel-Iran conflict shows no sign of abating. Israeli airstrikes continue, and Iran’s retaliatory attacks have caused significant casualties and infrastructure damage. The G7 summit has become a focal point for diplomatic efforts, but the risk of further escalation remains high. Merz’s statement has put additional pressure on the U.S. to clarify its position, while European leaders debate how far they are willing to go in supporting Israel. For Korean and international readers alike, the situation is a stark reminder of how interconnected our world has become—and how quickly a regional conflict can become a global crisis.

Conclusion: Why You Should Care

So, why does this matter to you? Because the decisions made in places like Berlin, Washington, and Tehran can affect everything from the price of gas to the safety of your city. Merz’s bold words have opened a new chapter in the debate over how the world should respond to threats like Iran’s nuclear program. Whether you agree with him or not, one thing is clear: the stakes have never been higher, and the world is watching.